Reds eye French youngster

Liverpool are believed to be interested in signing Valenciennes centre-back Nicolas Isimat-Mirin in the January transfer window.

Reports in France say the 21-year-old’s representatives have already held talks with Liverpool about a potential move in the new year, that could initially see him returning to the French club on loan before a possible permanent switch to Anfield in the summer.

Boss Brendan Rodgers and his scouts are on the lookout for exciting young talent in Europe and Isimat-Mirin has caught the eye with some solid displays in Ligue 1.

He first forced his way into the first-team reckoning at Valenciennes two years ago and has gone on to make 31 appearances for them, while Isimat-Mirin has also recently been called into the France Under-21 squad, winning three caps.

He is under contract in France until summer 2014 but, if Liverpool were to offer at least £1million for his services, a deal could reportedly be struck in the new year which would eventually see him make a permanent move over to England in the summer.